SKINNING. 1 7 



Bears always support themselves on the full expansion of their 

 dilated paws, so that it is necessary to bring the leg-wires out at 

 the claws. The leg-wires are bent at right angles for a length of 

 five inches from the upper end. These are put through the holes 

 in the bar, and when they have passed through they are curved 

 again. Two small gimlet-holes are then made for the reception 

 of smaller wire, by which the leg-wires must be bound together 

 close to the bar. The fore leg wires are fixed in the same man- 

 ner, which completes the framework. 



No other means are used for middle-sized animals, such as the 

 Lion, Tiger, Leopard, &c. The stuffing is completed as in other 

 quadrupeds. 



The "Walrus, Seals, and other amphibious animals of this order, 

 are treated in the manner of quadrupeds generally, only that teg- 

 wires are unnecessary, except in the fore-feet ; the tail, which rep- 

 resents the hind feet, has merely to be dried and kept properly 

 stretched in during this process, which precaution also applies to 

 the fore-feet. They are the easiest stuffed of all animals, only 

 the skins a/e very oily ; they should be well rubbed with the ar- 

 senical soap, and also with the preserving powder. 



The stuffing of the Walrus, and other large animals of this 

 family, should consist of well dried hay for the interior parts and 

 tow for the ^surface next the skin. 



BEAVER, ETC. 



The Beaver, Musk Bat, , Common Bat, and other animals whose 

 skins have a strong smell. These require to be plentifully sup- 

 plied with the preservative. The tail of the Beaver should be 

 cut underneath, and all the flesh removed, then stuffed with tow 

 or chopped flax, and afterwards thoroughly dried and well 

 primed with the arsenical soap to prevent putrefaction, to which 

 it is very liable. It should also have repeated washings with oil 

 of turpentine. The back should be round and short. 



THE PORCUPINE. 



In stuffing this animal considerable and varied expression may 

 be given, both from the attitude and disposition of the quills. 

 Great attention is therefore required in giving these a proper set 

 during the process of drying. They will require to be looked at 



